Matcha, the finely powdered green tea used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, has become a popular ingredient in sweets across Japan. In Tokyo, you can find a variety of matcha-infused treats, from creamy desserts to delicate pastries, that highlight the rich, slightly bitter flavor of this iconic tea. Whether you’re a matcha enthusiast or trying it for the first time,…
Donburi (rice bowls) are a beloved staple of Japanese cuisine, offering a great balance of flavors and textures with every bite. From fresh seafood and crispy tempura to savory grilled meats, these bowls showcase a variety of toppings, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. In this article, we’ll introduce some of the best donburi restaurants Tokyo has to…
Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) is a classic Japanese dish that brings out the simple, rich flavors of charcoal-grilled chicken. Whether seasoned with salt or coated in savory tare sauce, these skewers are a culinary cornerstone of any Japanese pub visit. In this article, we’ll explore some of Tokyo’s top yakitori spots, where you can enjoy this beloved dish in its…
When you visit Nezu Jinja Shrine, lush, towering trees create an atmosphere that makes it hard to believe you’re in the middle of Tokyo. This calm, serene space feels like time itself moves slower here, offering visitors a moment of peace and relaxation. Magnificent Edo-era architecture As you pass through the torii gate on the main approach leading into the…
Yushima Tenmangu Shrine enshrines the deification of Sugawara no Michizane, scholar and poet of the Heian period (794-1185), and deity of academics, literature, poetry, calligraphy, and the arts. It’s well-known as a place where students come to pray for success in their entrance exams. Additionally, it’s famous for its beautiful plum blossoms. Notice the plum crest in the shrine grounds…
The Anamori Inari Jinja Shrine, located near Haneda Airport, is said to offer blessings for safe air travel and journeys. The nearest station is Anamori-Inari Station, just three stops away from Keikyū Airport Line’s Haneda Airport Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 Station, making it a convenient spot to visit during your travels. The shrine is known for offering various blessings,…
In the midst of a quiet residential neighborhood, there is a scene that looks as though time has stood still. Deep within the grounds of a temple, surrounded by lush greenery, stands a solid and majestic hall. This is Zōshigayakishimojindō (also written Zōshigaya Kishimojindō), a Buddhist temple dedicated to the deity of safe childbirth and childrearing. You may find the…
The Nakameguro area is known for its diverse range of stylish restaurants. Among them, “Beef Kitchen Nakameguro Honten” (referred to hereafter as “Beef Kitchen Nakameguro”) has been satisfying meat lovers for many years. This popular restaurant that deals in carefully selected Kuroge wagyū (Japanese black) beef has garnered particularly high ratings on gourmet websites. The spotlessly clean interior and attentive…
A Tokyo neighborhood known for its refined and stylish ambiance, Omotesando is home to “Men Ginza Onodera HONTEN,” a ramen shop that perfectly embodies the character of this chic area. Men Ginza Onodera HONTEN’s shoyu broth brings out the full flavor of each ingredient “麺 銀座おのでら 至高～supreme～,” Supreme ramen 2,200 JPY (tax included) Men Ginza Onodera HONTEN is the first…
Gyōza dumplings, with their endless variations of fillings and toppings, offer a wide range of flavors. In addition, at “KITTAN GYOZA” in Nakameguro, you can enjoy gyoza that not only taste delicious but also look great on social media posts. Kittan Gyoza’s dumplings are umami-rich and crafted with care The gyoza at KITTAN GYOZA are characterized by their distinct umami…
Wagyū (beef sourced from specific Japanese cattle breeds) is a must-try for any meat lover visiting Japan. Globally renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth texture, exquisite taste, and unique marbling, it can be enjoyed in many different ways, from grilled yakiniku cuisine to hotpot cooking. In this article, we will introduce some of the best wagyu restaurants Tokyo has to offer, and…
Unagi, Japanese freshwater eel, tends to be more expensive than eel from overseas. However, “Makiyaki Unagi Ginza Onodera HONTEN,” a restaurant in Akasaka, is changing the long-standing image that domestic unagi is expensive. The restaurant uses only domestic eels. Yet, they offer reasonably priced unagi bowls for under 1,000 JPY. “国産うな玉丼,” Domestic Unagi Tamago Don 980 JPY (tax included) The…
Kioichō in Tokyo was once home to famous feudal lords in the Edo period. This area, steeped in Edo history, is lined with renowned high-end Japanese restaurants that exude luxury. Among these restaurants in the area, one we would like to introduce is Kioichō Kichiza. The kaiseki (traditional Japanese multicourse meals), composed of seasonal ingredients, are crafted with meticulous care…
Onigiri, rice balls, have been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries. While simple in concept, their depth in craft and flavor have made them not just a traditional treat, but a popular modern delicacy. These tasty rice balls come in a wide variety of flavors, and are the perfect snack to fuel your travels in Japan. Here are some…
When it comes to bakery shops, finding one that offers freshly made bread at any time of the day is a rare treat. At “dacō Nakameguro,” located in the trendy Nakameguro area of Tokyo, nearly 40 different types of bread are freshly baked or finished just before being served, ensuring that every bite is as fresh as possible. Not only…